Fuel cell humidifier provided with bypass flow path

Abstract

A fuel cell humidifier provided with a bypass flow path according to the present invention comprises: a mid-case provided with a first fluid inlet through which a first fluid is introduced and a first fluid outlet through which the first fluid is discharged; a cartridge that is disposed in the mid-case and includes an inner case and a humidifying membrane disposed in the inner case; a mid-case partition wall that is provided in the mid-case and divides a space inside the mid-case; and the bypass flow path formed in the mid-case partition wall.

Description

Fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass Euro

[0001] The present invention relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, and more specifically, to a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel in a midcase partition, wherein the bypass channel is provided in the midcase partition and the differential pressure can be reduced while forming a uniform fluid flow inside the humidifier by changing the position, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel.

[0002] A fuel cell is a power generation battery that produces electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike general chemical batteries such as dry batteries or storage batteries, fuel cells can continuously produce electricity as long as hydrogen and oxygen are supplied, and they have the advantage of being about twice as efficient as internal combustion engines because there is no heat loss.

[0003] A fuel cell system includes a stack, which is an assembly of unit fuel cells comprising an air electrode and a fuel electrode for generating electricity; an air supply device for supplying air to the air electrode of the fuel cell; and a hydrogen supply device for supplying hydrogen to the fuel electrode of the fuel cell.

[0004] Polymer fuel cells in a fuel cell system require adequate moisture for the ion exchange membrane of the membrane-electrode assembly (MEA) to function properly, and for this purpose, the air supply device of the fuel cell system is equipped with a humidifier to humidify the air supplied to the fuel cell.

[0005] The humidifier uses the moisture from the high-temperature, high-humidity exhaust gas discharged from the air electrode of the fuel cell to humidify the dry gas supplied through the air compressor of the air supply device, and supplies the humidified air to the air electrode of the fuel cell.

[0006] The humidifier in the fuel cell utilizes a membrane humidification method. Membrane humidifiers perform humidification through a gas-to-gas moisture exchange process using high-temperature, high-humidity exhaust gas discharged from the fuel cell's air electrode and dry gas supplied through an air compressor.

[0007] The humidifier of the fuel cell may be equipped with a cartridge in which a humidification membrane made of a hollow fiber membrane is arranged as a unit module, and may be equipped with a midcase in which a plurality of cartridges are mounted.

[0008] Dry gas passes through the interior of the hollow fiber membrane through one side and the other side of the cartridge, and an opening (window) open to the outside is provided on the side of the cartridge. The midcase may be provided with an exhaust gas inlet for introducing exhaust gas into the cartridge, and the exhaust gas introduced through the exhaust gas inlet may enter the interior of the cartridge through the opening of the cartridge. The exhaust gas introduced into the interior of the cartridge exchanges moisture with the dry gas passing through the interior of the hollow fiber membrane through the hollow fiber membrane.

[0009] However, fuel cell humidifiers using such cartridges have the following problems. When exhaust gas entering through the exhaust gas inlet provided in the mid-case flows into the cartridge, there is a problem that the exhaust gas is not evenly distributed inside the cartridge.

[0010] Specifically, the flow rate of exhaust gas passing through the cartridge varies depending on the location of the exhaust gas inlet provided in the midcase, the pressure of the exhaust gas, etc. If the exhaust gas is not evenly distributed inside the cartridge, there is a problem in that the humidification efficiency decreases at points where the flow rate of exhaust gas is low.

[0011] In addition, if the exhaust gas is not evenly distributed within the cartridge, deterioration of the humidifying membrane may occur first at points with high exhaust gas flow rates, which leads to a decrease in the lifespan of the humidifying membrane. Therefore, there is a need to develop technology that can evenly distribute the exhaust gas within the cartridge.

[0012] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems, and more specifically, relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel in a midcase bulkhead, wherein the bypass channel is provided to form a uniform fluid flow inside the humidifier and reduce differential pressure by changing the location, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel.

[0013] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to one embodiment may be a humidifier for a fuel cell that humidifies a fluid to be supplied to a fuel cell stack.

[0014] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment may include: a midcase equipped with a first fluid inlet for introducing a first fluid and a first fluid outlet for discharging a first fluid; a cartridge disposed inside the midcase, comprising an inner case and a humidifying membrane disposed inside the inner case; a midcase partition provided inside the midcase and dividing the space inside the midcase; and a bypass channel formed in the midcase partition.

[0015] The bypass channel of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment may be formed in the shape of a hole penetrating the midcase bulkhead or in the shape of a groove carved out on the outer side of the midcase bulkhead.

[0016] In the interior of the midcase partition of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, a mounting hole is provided for mounting the cartridge, and a plurality of bypass channels may be provided along the outer side of the mounting hole.

[0017] In the midcase partition of a fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, a plurality of bypass channels with different cross-sectional areas may be provided.

[0018] The cross-sectional area of ​​a plurality of bypass channels of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with bypass channels according to one embodiment may gradually decrease or gradually increase as one moves from a first point to a second point of the midcase partition.

[0019] In the midcase partition of a fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, a plurality of bypass channels having the same cross-sectional area may be provided.

[0020] A plurality of bypass channels provided in the midcase partition of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment include a first bypass channel, a second bypass channel, and a third bypass channel, and the spacing between the first bypass channel and the second bypass channel may be different from the spacing between the second bypass channel and the third bypass channel.

[0021] A plurality of bypass channels provided in the midcase partition of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment include a first bypass channel, a second bypass channel, and a third bypass channel, and the spacing between the first bypass channel and the second bypass channel may be the same as the spacing between the second bypass channel and the third bypass channel.

[0022] In the interior of the midcase partition of a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, a mounting hole is provided for mounting the cartridge, and the bypass channel may be formed as an extended bypass channel extending along the outer shape of the mounting hole.

[0023] The extended bypass channel of a fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment can be extended along the mounting hole while changing its width.

[0024] In the midcase partition of a fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, two or more of the extended bypass channels may be provided.

[0025] In a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to one embodiment, the bypass channel extends along the longitudinal direction of the midcase, and a chamfered portion that is chamfered in a straight line or a round curve may be provided on one side or the other side of the bypass channel.

[0026] The present invention relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, wherein the bypass channel is provided in the midcase partition, and has the advantage of being able to uniformly disperse the flow of fluid inside the cartridge by changing the location, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel.

[0027] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of improving the humidification efficiency of the humidification membrane provided inside the cartridge and improving the durability of the humidification membrane provided inside the cartridge by uniformly dispersing the flow of fluid inside the cartridge.

[0028] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing a plurality of bypass channels in the midcase bulkhead and forming the cross-sectional areas of the plurality of bypass channels differently.

[0029] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing a plurality of bypass channels with the same cross-sectional area in the midcase bulkhead and forming different spacings between the plurality of bypass channels.

[0030] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing an extended bypass channel that extends from the upper part of the mounting hole to the side of the mounting hole while changing the width of the midcase bulkhead.

[0031] In addition, the present invention has the advantage of reducing the differential pressure inside the humidifier by providing a bypass channel in the midcase bulkhead and changing the location, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel to reduce fluid flow resistance.

[0032] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a midcase and an end cap according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing that in an embodiment of the present invention, a first fluid inlet and a first fluid outlet are positioned at various points in the midcase.

[0034] FIGS. 4 and FIGS. 5 are drawings showing a cartridge placed inside a midcase according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a bypass channel provided in a midcase bulkhead according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] FIG. 7 is a drawing showing a midcase partition having a bypass channel in the shape of a hole or groove according to an embodiment of the present invention, and a cartridge placed inside the midcase.

[0037] FIG. 8 is a drawing showing a midcase partition having a bypass channel and a plurality of cartridges arranged inside the midcase according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0038] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a plurality of bypass channels with different cross-sectional areas in a midcase bulkhead according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 10 is a drawing showing a midcase bulkhead according to an embodiment of the present invention having a plurality of bypass channels with the same cross-sectional area and different spacing between the plurality of bypass channels.

[0040] FIG. 11 is a drawing showing an extended bypass channel provided in a midcase bulkhead according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 12 is a drawing showing that two extended bypass channels are provided in a midcase bulkhead according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 13 is a drawing showing a plurality of bypass channels provided along the outer side of a circular mounting hole according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 14 is a drawing showing a plurality of extended bypass channels provided along the outer side of a circular mounting hole according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 15 is a drawing showing that the inlet and outlet of a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention are provided with chamfered portions that are chamfered in a straight line.

[0045] FIG. 16 is a drawing showing that the inlet and outlet of a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention are provided with chamfered portions that are chamfered with a rounded curve.

[0046] This specification clarifies the scope of the present invention and explains the principles of the present invention and discloses embodiments so that those skilled in the art can practice the present invention. The disclosed embodiments may be implemented in various forms.

[0047] Expressions such as "comprising" or "may comprise" that may be used in various embodiments of the present invention indicate the existence of the disclosed corresponding function, operation, or component, and do not limit one or more additional functions, operations, or components. Furthermore, in various embodiments of the present invention, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the existence of the features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0048] When it is stated that a component is "connected or coupled" to another component, it should be understood that the component may be directly connected or coupled to the other component, but that a new component may also exist between the component and the other component. On the other hand, when it is stated that a component is "directly connected" or "directly coupled" to another component, it should be understood that no new component exists between the component and the other component.

[0049] The terms "first," "second," etc., as used in this specification may be used to describe various components, but the components should not be limited by these terms. The terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another.

[0050] The present invention relates to a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, wherein the bypass channel is provided in a midcase partition, and the position, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel can be changed to form a uniform fluid flow inside the humidifier while reducing differential pressure.

[0051] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to an embodiment of the present invention may humidify a fluid to be supplied to a fuel cell stack. The fluid moving through the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to an embodiment of the present invention may be a humid gas or a dry gas moving inside the humidifier for a fuel cell.

[0052] However, it is not limited thereto, and the fluid moving through the fuel cell humidifier equipped with a bypass path according to the present embodiment may be various types of fluid moving inside the fuel cell humidifier. Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail, focusing on the fluid according to the embodiments of the present invention being a humid gas or a dry gas.

[0053] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a midcase (110), a cartridge (120), a midcase partition (140), and a bypass path (150).

[0054] Referring to FIG. 1, the midcase (110) is provided with a first fluid inlet (111) into which a first fluid is introduced and a first fluid outlet (112) into which the first fluid is discharged. The midcase (110) may be an external housing of a humidifier, and the cartridge (120) having a humidifying membrane may be disposed inside the midcase (110).

[0055] The midcase (110) may be provided with a first fluid inlet (111) into which a first fluid is introduced and a first fluid outlet (112) into which the first fluid is discharged. The first fluid may be a humid gas, and the humid gas introduced through the first fluid inlet (111) may pass through the midcase (110) and be discharged through the first fluid outlet (112). However, the first fluid is not limited to a humid gas, and the first fluid may be a dry gas.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 1, the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided on the upper part of the midcase (110).

[0057] Referring to FIG. 2, the first fluid inlet (111) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided at the upper part of the midcase (110), and the first fluid outlet (112) may be provided at the lower part of the midcase (110). Additionally, the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided at the lower part of the midcase (110).

[0058] Referring to FIG. 3, the first fluid inlet (111) may be provided at the top of the midcase (110), and the first fluid outlet (112) may be provided on the side of the midcase (110). Additionally, the first fluid inlet (111) may be provided at the bottom of the midcase (110), and the first fluid outlet (112) may be provided at any position on the side of the midcase (110). Thus, the positions of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112) according to the embodiment of the present invention may be changed as needed.

[0059] The cartridge (120) is disposed inside the mid-case (110), and the cartridge (120) includes an inner case (121) and a humidifying membrane (122) disposed inside the inner case (121). Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the inner case (121) may be a case having a space inside, and one or more of the inner cases (121) may be disposed inside the mid-case (110).

[0060] The above humidification membrane (122) may be placed inside the inner case (121). The above humidification membrane (122) may be a humidification membrane that exchanges moisture between the first fluid and the second fluid, and one or more or multiple humidification membranes (122) may be provided inside the inner case (121).

[0061] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the humidifying membrane (122) may be made of a hollow fiber membrane. However, it is not limited thereto, and the humidifying membrane (122) may be made of various types of humidifying membranes as long as it can exchange moisture between the humid gas and the dry gas.

[0062] The above humidification membrane (122) can be fixed to the inner case (121) through a fixing part. The fixing part fixes the humidification membrane (122) to the inner case (121) on one side and the other side of the inner case (121), and the fixing part may be made of a potting layer.

[0063] The above fixing part is capable of isolating the internal space of the inner case (121), and by providing the fixing part on one side and the other side of the inner case (121), dry air can only move through the interior of the humidifying membrane (122) or the hollow of the humidifying membrane (122).

[0064] Referring to FIG. 6, a window (123) for supplying or discharging humid gas into or out of the inner case (121) may be provided on the outer side of the inner case (121). Humid gas may be introduced into the inner case (121) through the window (123) provided on one side or the other side of the inner case (121), and humid gas inside the inner case (121) may be discharged to the outside through the window (123) provided on the other side or one side of the inner case (121).

[0065] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include an end cap (130). The end cap (130) is coupled to the midcase (110), and the end cap (130) may be provided with a second fluid inlet (131) into which a second fluid is introduced and a second fluid outlet (132) into which the second fluid is discharged.

[0066] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the second fluid may be a dry gas. The dry gas may be introduced into the end cap (130) through the second fluid inlet (131). After passing through the midcase (110), the dry gas introduced into the end cap (130) may be discharged through the second fluid outlet (132) provided in the end cap (130). However, the second fluid is not limited to a dry gas, and the second fluid may be a wet gas.

[0067] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the end cap (130) may include a first end cap coupled to one side of the midcase (110) and a second end cap coupled to the other side of the midcase (110). The first end cap may be provided with a second fluid inlet (131), and the second end cap may be provided with a second fluid outlet (132).

[0068] The second fluid outlet (132) is connected to a fuel cell stack, and the humidified fluid discharged through the second fluid outlet (132) can be supplied to the fuel cell stack. The high temperature and high humidity humid gas discharged from the fuel cell stack can be introduced into the midcase (110) through the first fluid inlet (111) provided in the midcase (110).

[0069] The humid gas introduced into the midcase (110) supplies moisture to the dry gas supplied to the midcase (110) through the second fluid inlet (131) of the end cap (130).

[0070] The humidified gas, which supplies moisture to the dry gas, can be discharged to the outside through the first fluid outlet (112) provided in the midcase (110). As the humidified dry gas is discharged through the midcase (110) through the second fluid outlet (132), the humidified fluid is supplied to the fuel cell stack.

[0071] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the end cap (130) may be coupled to one side and the other side of the midcase (110), but the end cap (130) may also be formed integrally with the midcase (110).

[0072] Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the second fluid inlet (131) and the second fluid outlet (132) may be provided in one of the end caps (130), and the second fluid inlet (131) and the second fluid outlet (132) may not be provided in the other end cap (130).

[0073] The midcase partition (140) is provided inside the midcase (110) and divides the space inside the midcase (110). According to an embodiment of the present invention, the midcase partition (140) can divide the space inside the midcase (110) between a plurality of cartridges (120).

[0074] Specifically, a plurality of the cartridges (120) may be provided inside the midcase (110), and a midcase partition (140) may be provided between the plurality of the cartridges (120).

[0075] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, a mounting hole (141) in which the cartridge (120) can be mounted may be provided inside the midcase bulkhead (140). One cartridge (120) may be mounted in one of the mounting holes (141) provided inside the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0076] Referring to FIG. 7, the midcase partition (140) may be provided with one mounting hole (141). Additionally, when a plurality of cartridges (120) are mounted in the midcase (110), the midcase partition (140) may be provided with a plurality of mounting holes (141) as shown in FIG. 8.

[0077] In the following description, the focus will be on the fact that one mounting hole (141) is provided in the midcase bulkhead (140). In the following description, the longitudinal direction may refer to the left and right directions based on FIG. 6. Also, in the following description, the vertical direction may refer to the up and down directions based on FIG. 6.

[0078] In addition, the cartridge (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed in the shape shown in FIGS. 4, FIGS. 5, and FIGS. 6, but is not limited thereto. The cartridge (120) may be formed in various shapes such as cylindrical, polygonal, irregular, etc.

[0079] Referring to FIGS. 4, 5, and 6, the cartridge (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be mounted while standing upright on the midcase (110), and the window (123) can be provided on both sides of the cartridge (120).

[0080] Referring to FIGS. 1, 2, and 3, when the cartridge (120) is mounted upright in the midcase (110) and the windows (123) are provided on both sides of the cartridge (120), the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) may not be uniform depending on the position of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112).

[0081] Referring to FIG. 4, at a point located close to the first fluid inlet (111), a relatively small flow rate may pass through due to the pressure of the fluid flowing in through the first fluid inlet (111). Additionally, at a point far from the first fluid inlet (111), a relatively large flow rate may pass through.

[0082] However, this is not limited thereto, and depending on the size and location of the first fluid inlet (111) and the pressure of the fluid passing through the first fluid inlet (111), a relatively large flow rate may pass through a point located close to the first fluid inlet (111) as shown in FIG. 5. Additionally, a relatively small flow rate may pass through a point far from the first fluid inlet (111).

[0083] In this way, the flow rate of the fluid flowing into a specific point of the cartridge (120) can be changed according to the size and location of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112), and can be changed according to the pressure of the fluid passing through the first fluid inlet (111). In FIGS. 1, 4, and 5, the size of the arrow may be proportional to the flow rate of the fluid.

[0084] If a small amount of fluid is introduced into the cartridge (120), the humidification membrane (122) is used relatively less, resulting in a problem of reduced humidification efficiency. Additionally, if a large amount of fluid is introduced into the cartridge (120), the humidification membrane (122) is used relatively more, which may cause deterioration to occur earlier, and consequently, the lifespan of the humidification membrane (122) may be shortened.

[0085] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention may have the bypass channel (150) in the midcase partition (140) to evenly distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge (120).

[0086] The bypass channel (150) is formed in the midcase (110) bulkhead, and the bypass channel (150) may extend in the longitudinal direction. Referring to FIG. 7, the bypass channel (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed in the shape of a hole penetrating the midcase bulkhead (140). Additionally, the bypass channel (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed in the shape of a groove carved out on the outer side of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0087] The cross-section of the bypass channel (150) may be circular. Additionally, the bypass channel (150) may be formed in the shape of a carved groove. However, it is not limited thereto, and the cross-sectional shape of the bypass channel (150) may be formed in various shapes such as circular, polygonal, or irregular shapes.

[0088] The bypass channel (150) may be provided on the outside of the mounting hole (141). Referring to FIG. 7, the bypass channel (150) may be provided on the upper part of the mounting hole (141). Specifically, the bypass channel (150) may be positioned on the extension of the centerline (142) of the mounting hole, which extends upward and downward from the center of the mounting hole (141).

[0089] Referring to FIG. 7, the bypass channel (150) may be positioned above the extension of the centerline (142) of the mounting hole, and by positioning the bypass channel (150) in this way, fluid moving outside the cartridge (120) and the mounting hole (141) may be guided toward the bypass channel (150).

[0090] As the fluid is guided toward the bypass channel (150) provided above the mounting hole (141), the fluid can be supplied to the upper point of the cartridge (120) where a relatively small amount of fluid flows in. This allows the amount of fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) to be distributed evenly.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 8, one bypass channel (150) may be provided. Additionally, referring to FIG. 9, a plurality of bypass channels (150) may be provided in the midcase bulkhead (140) according to an embodiment of the present invention. A plurality of bypass channels (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be provided along the outer side of the mounting hole (141).

[0092] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the midcase partition (140) may be provided with a plurality of bypass channels (150) having different cross-sectional areas. As described above, depending on the size and location of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112), the fluid flow rate may be low at a specific point of the cartridge (120), and the fluid flow rate may be high at another specific point of the cartridge (120).

[0093] Therefore, at points where the fluid flow rate is relatively low, the cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass channel (150) can be formed larger, and at points where the fluid flow rate is relatively high, the cross-sectional area of ​​the bypass channel (150) can be formed smaller. Through this, the fluid flow rate entering the cartridge (120) can be distributed uniformly.

[0094] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention can precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) by adjusting the number, position, etc. of the bypass channels (150) provided in the midcase partition (140).

[0095] In addition, a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention can precisely distribute the flow rate of the incoming fluid by adjusting the number, position, etc. of a plurality of bypass channels (150) having different cross-sectional areas.

[0096] In addition, a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention can reduce the differential pressure inside the humidifier by reducing the fluid flow resistance by changing the number, location, size, etc. of the bypass channel (150) provided in the midcase partition (140).

[0097] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the midcase partition (140) may include an upper wall (143) provided at the upper end of the mounting hole (141), a lower wall (144) provided at the lower end of the mounting hole (141), and side walls (145) provided on both sides of the mounting hole (141), and the bypass channel (150) may be provided in the side walls (145).

[0098] Specifically, according to an embodiment of the present invention, one or more bypass channels (150) may be provided in the side wall (145). One or more bypass channels (150) may be provided in the side wall (145) provided on both sides of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0099] Referring to FIG. 9, the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of bypass channels (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may gradually decrease from the first point (146) to the second point (147) of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0100] The first point (146) and the second point (147) may be any point on the midcase bulkhead (140). For example, the first point (146) may be the upper wall (143) point of the midcase bulkhead (140), and the second point (147) may be the lower point of the side wall (145) of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0101] The cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of bypass channels (150) may gradually decrease from the upper wall (143), which is the first point (146), to the lower point of the side wall (145), which is the second point (147). However, the first point (146) and the second point (147) are not limited to the points described above, and the first point (146) and the second point (147) may be formed at various points of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0102] Additionally, according to an embodiment of the present invention, the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of bypass channels (150) may gradually increase from the first point (146) to the second point (147) of the midcase bulkhead (140).

[0103] In addition, the position where the cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of bypass channels (150) gradually decreases or increases from the first point (146) to the second point (147) of the midcase bulkhead (140) can be changed according to the size and position of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112).

[0104] Specifically, the first point (146) and the second point (147) can be determined by considering the flow rate of the fluid flowing into a specific point of the cartridge (120) according to the size and location of the first fluid inlet (111) and the first fluid outlet (112).

[0105] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with a plurality of bypass channels (150) having the same cross-sectional area. Referring to FIG. 10, the plurality of bypass channels (150) provided in the midcase bulkhead (140) may include a first bypass channel (151), a second bypass channel (152), and a third bypass channel (153).

[0106] The first bypass channel (151), the second bypass channel (152), and the third bypass channel (153) may be bypass channels (150) that are adjacent to each other, and the first bypass channel (151), the second bypass channel (152), and the third bypass channel (153) may have the same cross-sectional area.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 10, the gap between the first bypass channel (151) and the second bypass channel (152) may be formed differently from the gap between the second bypass channel (152) and the third bypass channel (153).

[0108] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention is provided with a plurality of bypass channels (150) having the same cross-sectional area in the midcase partition (140), and by forming different spacings between the plurality of bypass channels (150), the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) can be precisely distributed.

[0109] In addition, in a humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention, the gap between the first bypass channel (151) and the second bypass channel (152) may be formed to be the same as the gap between the second bypass channel (152) and the third bypass channel (153) as needed.

[0110] Specifically, when a plurality of bypass channels (150) having the same cross-sectional area are provided in the midcase bulkhead (140), a plurality of bypass channels (150) formed with unequal spacing between bypass channels (150) and a plurality of bypass channels (150) formed with equal spacing between bypass channels (150) may be provided simultaneously.

[0111] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the bypass channel (150) may be provided in one or more of the upper wall (143), the lower wall (144), and the side wall (145). Additionally, the bypass channel (150) may be provided in the upper wall (143) and the side wall (145), or may be provided in the upper wall (143) - the side wall (145) - the lower wall (144).

[0112] Referring to FIG. 11, the bypass channel (150) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be formed as an extended bypass channel (160) that extends along the outer side of the mounting hole (141). Specifically, the extended bypass channel (160) is formed as an elongated channel that extends along the outer side of the mounting hole (141).

[0113] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the extended bypass channel (160) may extend from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) to the side of the mounting hole (141). Additionally, the extended bypass channel (160) may extend from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) past the side of the mounting hole (141) to the lower part of the mounting hole (141).

[0114] Referring to FIG. 11, the extended bypass channel (160) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be extended along the mounting hole (141) while changing its width. By extending the extended bypass channel (160) along the mounting hole (141) while changing its width, the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) can be precisely distributed.

[0115] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the extended bypass channel (160) may be extended from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) to the side of the mounting hole (141) while narrowing in width. Referring to FIG. 11, the second width of the extended bypass channel (160) on the side of the mounting hole (141) may be smaller than the first width of the extended bypass channel (160) at the upper point of the mounting hole (141).

[0116] In this way, as the width of the extended bypass channel (160) narrows and extends from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) to the side of the mounting hole (141), the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) can be evenly distributed.

[0117] As described above, the fluid flow rate may be low at a specific point of the cartridge (120), and the fluid flow rate may be high at another specific point of the cartridge (120).

[0118] Accordingly, at a specific point in the cartridge (120) where the fluid flow rate is relatively low, the width of the extended bypass channel (160) can be formed large, and at another specific point in the cartridge (120) where the fluid flow rate is relatively high, the width of the extended bypass channel (160) can be formed small. This allows the fluid flow rate entering the cartridge (120) to be distributed uniformly.

[0119] Referring to FIG. 12, the midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with two or more of the extended bypass channels (160). Specifically, the midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with one of the extended bypass channels (160) extending from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) to one side of the mounting hole (141), and another of the extended bypass channels (160) extending from the upper part of the mounting hole (141) to the other side of the mounting hole (141).

[0120] Referring to FIGS. 13 and 14, the cartridge (120) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be circular, and the mounting hole (141) in which the cartridge (120) is mounted may also be circular.

[0121] Referring to FIG. 13, when the mounting hole (141) in which the cartridge (120) is mounted is circular, a plurality of bypass channels (150) may be provided along the outer side of the mounting hole (141) in the midcase bulkhead (140). A plurality of bypass channels (150) with different cross-sectional areas may be provided in the midcase bulkhead (140), thereby allowing for precise distribution of the fluid flow rate entering the cartridge (120).

[0122] Additionally, the midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with a plurality of bypass channels (150) having the same cross-sectional area. By providing a plurality of bypass channels (150) having the same cross-sectional area in the midcase bulkhead (140) and forming different spacings between the plurality of bypass channels (150), the flow rate of the fluid flowing into the cartridge (120) can be precisely distributed.

[0123] Referring to FIG. 14, when the mounting hole (141) in which the cartridge (120) is mounted is circular, the midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with an extended bypass channel (160) that extends along the outer side of the mounting hole (141).

[0124] The extended bypass channel (160) extends along the outer side of the mounting hole (141), and the extended bypass channel (160) may be formed as an elongated hole. The midcase bulkhead (140) may be provided with four of the extended bypass channels (160) along the outer side of the mounting hole (141). However, it is not limited thereto, and the number of the extended bypass channels (160) may be changed as needed.

[0125] Referring to FIG. 6, the bypass channel (150) may extend along the longitudinal direction of the midcase (110). Referring to FIG. 15 and FIG. 16, a chamfered portion (170) may be provided on one side or the other side of the bypass channel (150), which is chamfered in a straight line or a round curve.

[0126] Specifically, when the bypass channel (150) extends along the length direction of the midcase (110), the inlet and outlet of the bypass channel (150) may be provided with a chamfered portion (170) that is chamfered in a straight line or a round curve.

[0127] As the inlet and outlet of the bypass channel (150) are chamfered, the area of ​​the inlet and outlet of the bypass channel (150) may be larger than the internal area of ​​the bypass channel (150). Additionally, as the inlet and outlet of the bypass channel (150) are chamfered, a sloped or rounded curve capable of inducing fluid flow may be formed at the inlet and outlet of the bypass channel (150).

[0128] In this way, by providing the chamfered portion (170) at the inlet and outlet of the bypass path (150), the fluid flow resistance is reduced, thereby effectively reducing the differential pressure inside the humidifier.

[0129] Referring to FIG. 15, the chamfered portion (170) may be extended in a straight line. Also, referring to FIG. 16, the chamfered portion (170) may be extended in a rounded curve.

[0130] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass path according to the embodiment of the present invention described above has the following effects.

[0131] A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to uniformly distribute the flow of fluid inside the cartridge by providing a bypass channel in the midcase partition and changing the location, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel.

[0132] In addition, the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of improving the humidification efficiency of the humidification membrane provided inside the cartridge and improving the durability of the humidification membrane provided inside the cartridge by uniformly dispersing the flow of fluid inside the cartridge.

[0133] In addition, the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing a plurality of bypass channels in the midcase partition and forming the cross-sectional areas of the plurality of bypass channels differently.

[0134] In addition, the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing a plurality of bypass channels with the same cross-sectional area in the midcase partition and forming different spacings between the plurality of bypass channels.

[0135] In addition, the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to precisely distribute the flow rate of fluid flowing into the cartridge by providing an extended bypass channel that extends from the upper part of the mounting hole to the side of the mounting hole while changing the width of the midcase bulkhead.

[0136] In addition, the humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel according to an embodiment of the present invention has the advantage of being able to reduce the differential pressure inside the humidifier by reducing fluid flow resistance by changing the location, number, size, etc. of the bypass channel, and by providing a bypass channel in the midcase bulkhead.

[0137] As such, the present invention has been described with reference to an embodiment illustrated in the drawings; however, this is merely illustrative, and those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and variations of the embodiment are possible therefrom. Accordingly, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A humidifier for a fuel cell that humidifies a fluid to be supplied to a fuel cell stack, A midcase equipped with a first fluid inlet for receiving a first fluid and a first fluid outlet for discharging a first fluid; A cartridge comprising an inner case and a humidifying membrane disposed inside the inner case, and disposed inside the mid case; A midcase partition provided inside the midcase and dividing the space inside the midcase; A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized by including a bypass channel formed in the midcase bulkhead.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above bypass Euro is, It is formed in the shape of a hole penetrating the midcase bulkhead, or A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel characterized by being formed in a groove shape carved out on the outer side of the midcase bulkhead.

3. In Paragraph 1, The interior of the midcase bulkhead is provided with a mounting hole in which the cartridge can be mounted, and A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the bypass channel is provided in multiple numbers along the outer side of the mounting hole.

4. In Paragraph 3, A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the midcase bulkhead is provided with a plurality of bypass channels having different cross-sectional areas.

5. In Paragraph 4, The cross-sectional area of ​​the plurality of the above-mentioned bypass channels is, A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel characterized by gradually decreasing or gradually increasing from a first point to a second point of the midcase bulkhead.

6. In Paragraph 3, A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the midcase bulkhead is provided with a plurality of bypass channels having the same cross-sectional area.

7. In Paragraph 6, The plurality of bypass channels provided in the midcase bulkhead include a first bypass channel, a second bypass channel, and a third bypass channel, and A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the gap between the first bypass channel and the second bypass channel is different from the gap between the second bypass channel and the third bypass channel.

8. In Paragraph 6, The plurality of bypass channels provided in the midcase bulkhead include a first bypass channel, a second bypass channel, and a third bypass channel, and A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the gap between the first bypass channel and the second bypass channel is the same as the gap between the second bypass channel and the third bypass channel.

9. In Paragraph 1, The interior of the midcase bulkhead is provided with a mounting hole in which the cartridge can be mounted, and A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the bypass channel is formed as an extended bypass channel extending along the outer shape of the mounting hole.

10. In Paragraph 9, A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel characterized by the above-mentioned extended bypass channel extending along the above-mentioned mounting hole while changing its width.

11. In Paragraph 10, A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that the midcase bulkhead is provided with two or more of the extended bypass channels.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above bypass path extends along the length direction of the above midcase, and A humidifier for a fuel cell equipped with a bypass channel, characterized in that one side or the other side of the bypass channel is provided with a chamfered portion that is chamfered in a straight line or a round curve.

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